Return-to-Play: When Can I Get Back to Sport?

"Can I play this weekend?" is the most common question across Bangalore's sports physiotherapy clinics—and it's one that requires more than guesswork. Safe, confident return-to-play is possible only with a multi-layered, individualized approach. At 5 Sports Health, Dr. Nataraj HM (Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics) and Dr. Pooja Jhade (Consultant Physiotherapist & Sports Medicine Specialist) guide every comeback using global best practices that address both body and mind.

Key Factors in Clearance

Physical Readiness: Pain-free daily movement is necessary, but not sufficient. Functional capacity—strength, power, balance—must be at or near pre-injury levels (≥90%).

Sport-Specific Testing: Return isn't just about exercises in the gym. Hop tests, sprint drills, change-of-direction and sport simulation drills measure real-world readiness. Dr. Pooja Jhade uses these tests to design precise return-to-play plans.

Mental Readiness: Psychological clearance—confidence, absence of fear, positive anticipation—are as vital as physical benchmarks. Dr. Nataraj HM emphasizes that ignoring this aspect often leads to re-injury or poor performance.

Objective Assessment Tools

Strength and Power Tests: Isokinetic testing or one-leg hop distance helps gauge symmetry and capacity for sports like football, running, or tennis.

Movement Quality: Therapists observe and score technique under fatigue, identifying lingering compensations before they cause secondary injury.

Gradual Progression and Reintegration

Phased Reintegration: Start with practice drills, move to controlled scrimmage, and gradually ramp up intensity—skipping steps risks setbacks. Dr. Pooja Jhade ensures every phase builds confidence and strength in equal measure.

Monitor Training Load: Both under- and over-training after time out can lead to injury. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Nataraj HM align training loads with safe recovery timelines.

Don't let impatience risk your progress or long-term health. At 5 Sports Health, Dr. Nataraj HM and Dr. Pooja Jhade combine orthopaedic expertise with sports physiotherapy excellence to create a scientific, stepwise approach to return-to-play. Book a clearance assessment or phased reintegration consult today at Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru, and get back in the game—stronger than ever.